Fallen Jockey (study for ‘Scene from the Steeplechase – The Fallen Jockey’) (c. 1866)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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More about this artwork
This compelling study by Edgar Degas, titled "Fallen Jockey", captures a poignant moment of stillness and defeat, a detailed precursor to his larger work, 'Scene from the Steeplechase – The Fallen Jockey'. Rendered with striking detail and sensitivity, the artwork provides a glimpse into the harsh realities of competitive horse racing during the 19th century.The jockey, depicted in repose, lies against a muted, earthy background that accentuates the somber mood of the scene. Degas masterfully uses pastels to convey not just the physical attributes but also the palpable sense of exhaustion and dismay that envelops the fallen rider. His body is twisted unnaturally, suggesting a harsh fall, with his eyes closed and face etched with weariness, perhaps pain, highlighting the peril inherent in his profession.Degas's choice of colors, predominantly dark and subdued with touches of red at the harness and the jockey’s cap, adds a subtle yet poignant emphasis to the drawing, symbolizing vitality amidst defeat. The raw emotion and realism Degas evokes in this study not only underscore his prowess in depicting human figures but also reflect his deep interest in the dynamics of movement and the human experience.